Special Education Certificate - Stand-Alone and Embedded

Evidence related to a rise in the number of students with disabilities in inclusive settings both internationally and nationally is the impetus for the proposed Graduate Certificate in Special Education. There is a need for all teachers to have knowledge, skills, and dispositions to meet the needs of students with disabilities. This certificate is specifically designed to meet the ever-increasing need for specialized preparation to meet the needs of students with disabilities. This stand-alone certificate does not lead to certification; however, candidates who complete the certificate program may transfer up to 9 graduate credits into the M.Ed. in Special Education.

The Graduate Certificate in Special Education is designed to offer graduate courses in instruction, assessment, and positive behavior supports, which provide educators with the necessary knowledge, skills, and dispositions to meet the needs of students with disabilities. Courses which apply to the certificate focus on effective use of evidence-based/research-supported practices and concepts underlying the successful academic experiences and needs of this diverse population.